LANSING – When the first Michigan Pride rally took place 25 years ago, it would have been hard for many in the LGBT community to imagine it not simply being a political march for equal rights, but eventually evolving into a celebration of gay culture.

"What you've seen in terms of community acceptance is a sea change," Emily Horvath, the co-chair and festival director for Michigan Pride, said. "It's a complete change from what we had in the late 80s and early 90s."

This year's event will mark the 25th anniversary of the first rally at the Capitol. It has grown into a multi-layered event that is as much about activism as it is a party.

The Michigan Pride Rally has endured and evolved throughout the years and has embraced all races and cultures, as shown in this picture that was taken during the 1996 rally.Courtesy of J. Solis/Michigan Pride

"We always say that it's a great thing because there is a Pride [event] in every city in Michigan," she added. "It's no longer just the statewide Pride happening in Lansing."

The rally will begin at noon on Saturday with a march beginning at Grand Avenue between Ottawa and Shiawassee streets and reaching the Capitol around 1:30 p.m. for the rally.

Democratic Gubernatorial candidate Mark Schauer will headline the group of speakers once the rally reaches the Capitol. Unlike many years where they would bring in a celebrity guest to be the Grand Marshall, this year's Grand Marshalls are Marsha Caspar and Glenna DeJong, the first same-sex couple to officially marry in Michigan.

"We don't just focus on the festival; we see it as our responsibility to give people space at the Capitol," Horvath said. "We're the only Pride event in the state that hosts a march, rally, and festival all in one day."

Due to the construction going on at the Capitol's steps, it will be held at the west side of the building.

There will also be a commitment ceremony for the hundreds of couples attending the event, with each receiving a certificate.

"The first part of the day is marching, protesting, and political rallies," she said. "The latter part of the das is a time to come and celebrate gay culture."

Following the rally, the festival will move to Old Town and will include a drag show, musical performances, and an appearance by comedian Mimi Gonzalez. For more information on Michigan Pride, visit their website.